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CNA Training – Stroke and Caring for Stroke Patients

CNA Training & Careers

As part of your CNA training, you will learn to recognize the signs of a stroke. You will also become familiar with the proper care of stroke patients. Although your CNA training classes will go over everything you’ll need to know, it’s always smart to review emergency situations and procedures often.

CNA Training & Signs of a Stroke

When you think an individual might be having a stroke, there are three major signs to look for. Even if these symptoms seem mild, it’s imperative that you call 911 immediately.

In situations like this, every second counts. There are several medications that can actually aid in the reduction of damage caused by a stroke, if they are administered within 3 hours after the initial symptoms begin.

The signs include:

a droopy smile (on one side of the face)

the inability to raise both arms to the same level

slurred or confused speech

As a CNA training graduate, you may have learned the FAST rule. The easiest way to remember the signs to look for is remembering the letters F – A – S – T. This stands for face, arms, speech and time, which is a reminder to call for emergency assistance right away.

There are several additional symptoms you’ll learn about, during your CNA training course. It should be noted, however, that no two people exhibit the same signs of a stroke. Because of this, it is extremely important to remain observant at all times.

These symptoms include:

numbness on one side of the body

dizziness or coordination difficulties

blurred vision or trouble seeing

severe headache

CNA Training & Care of a Stroke Patient

There are many things to learn, when it comes to compassionate care and the stroke patient. CNA training does a good job teaching you this.

The most important thing to remember is to let the individual remain as independent as possible. Even if it is faster and easier to help the patient accomplish something, chances are they’ll want to complete the task on their own… or at least try to. It all comes down to a matter of dignity, whether it’s eating, bathing, grooming or any other task associated with day-to-day living.

Part of caring for a stroke patient is to make sure he or she takes his medication, in a timely manner. Since many of these same patients experience memory problems, as a result of a stroke, the responsibility of keeping track of medicine cannot be left up to them.

Your CNA training may or may not touch on the importance of being an avid listener. This is especially crucial if the patient has little or no interaction with friends and family members. These folks need to know that someone cares about their recovery process and they are not alone. Often, individual’s who feel alone have little interest in a successful recovery.

Again, never wait to call 911 when you think a patient is having a stroke. It is ALWAYS better to be safe than sorry. Regarding patient care, CNA training will give you the insight you need to tend to patients properly and to make sure they are living the most full-filling lives possible.

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